Mandatory savings refund for foreign migrant workers 2026

Mandatory savings refund for foreign migrant workers

Some employers or intermediaries arrange mandatory savings for migrant workers in accordance with contracts. When the contract expires or is terminated early, the migrant workers have the right to withdraw all savings and interest, and the employers may not arbitrarily withhold them.

Last Updated: 5/4/2026｜Last verified: 1/1/2026｜Authority: Workforce Development Agency, Ministry of Labor

What is Mandatory Savings for Migrant Workers?

Some foreign migrant worker employment contracts stipulate that employers or agencies deduct a certain amount from their monthly salary (usually NT$1,000-3,000) and deposit it into a dedicated savings account. The purpose is to ensure that migrant workers do not leave Taiwan prematurely.

This money belongs to the migrant worker's personal property. Upon contract expiration or legal termination, the employer must return the entire amount, including interest.

Where are my savings?

Legitimate mandatory savings should be deposited into a bank account opened in the migrant worker's own name, and a passbook or account statement should be provided. You have the right to check the balance at any time.

If the employer fails to open a personal account, deposits the money into a company account, or refuses to disclose the whereabouts of the savings, this is illegal. Please call 1955 immediately.

When can I withdraw my savings?

Normal Return Upon Contract Expiration: Refund within 30 days before departure from Taiwan or upon return to Taiwan.
Early Termination (Not Due to Personal Fault): Refund can be requested immediately if the employer breaches the contract, mistreats the employee, or the factory closes.
Early Termination (For Personal Reasons): The employee still has the right to receive the refund, but the contract may stipulate partial deductions (contract details must be reviewed).

What if the employer refuses to refund?

Call 1955, explain the situation, and request mediation.
File a complaint with the county/city labor bureau, which can conduct a mandatory investigation.
Apply for a preliminary injunction in court to prevent the employer from transferring assets.
Consult the Legal Aid Foundation (free): 0800-007-080

What documents are required for the application process?

Passport or residence permit
Employment contract (including savings clause)
Bank passbook or account statement (if applicable)
Termination of employment certificate

Important Reminder

If your passport is withheld by your employer, they may also withhold your savings. This is a double violation; please seek help immediately.
The savings amount should match the contract. A shortage constitutes illegal withholding of wages, and you can request a refund.
Agency fees cannot be deducted under the guise of mandatory savings (agency fees have a legal limit).

FAQ

Q: My employer says the savings are a "security deposit," can he keep them?

A: No, withholding any "security deposit" under any pretext is illegal. According to the Employment Services Act, employers are prohibited from collecting security deposits from foreign workers or arbitrarily withholding their personal property; violators may be fined more than NT$300,000.

Q: My employer keeps my bankbook, and I can't see the balance. What should I do?

A: You have the right to check your account at any time. You can go directly to the bank where you opened the account with your passport or residence permit to request a replacement passbook or check your balance, without needing your employer's consent.

Q: If the contract was only for 2 years (less than 3 years), can I get all my savings back?

A: Yes, the forced savings are part of your salary and should be fully refunded regardless of the contract length. If the contract contains clauses such as "no refunds if less than 3 years have passed," these clauses are legally invalid.

Q: I've already returned to China. Can I still recover my savings?

A: Yes, you can file a lawsuit through a brokerage firm, lawyer, or legal aid foundation in Taiwan, or request mediation from 1955. The statute of limitations is 5 years.

The information on this site is compiled from public government sources. Actual eligibility is determined by the issuing authority. We do not process applications on your behalf and do not charge any fees.